Everything you need to throw a successful cocktail party.

Stocking Up

As the holiday season begins, check the bar, the wine cellar, the pantry and the fridge to be sure you're ready for spur-of-the-moment parties or drop-in guests. And of course, for more formal gatherings, you'll want to be especially certain that you have enough alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages to make your guests feel pampered. It's better to err on the side of excess, since most unopened beverages can be stored for later consumption. For formal parties of more than 10 people, consider hiring a professional bartender, who will not only mix and serve drinks, but who can help keep used glassware moving into the kitchen for cleanup. An added plus: you'll have more time to spend with your guests if someone else is mixing the martinis. For casual gatherings of up to 30 guests, it's perfectly fine to set out a do-it-yourself bar on a large table. In order for guests to serve themselves, make sure the bar is well-organized  the liquors grouped together, the mixers together, etc.  and that everything is in sight and easily accessible. What about food? If the party is early  say, from 5 to 8 p.m.  the indication is that guests will have a quick drink and a bite to eat and be on their way to dinner, to the theater or home. For this kind of party, offer a variety of hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, plus small bowls of mixed nuts or toasted almonds at the bar. If the party is later  from 7 to 9 p.m. for example  be sure to have substantial fare that can be hearty enough to pass as a meal. You might also include a selection of sweets and a coffee bar. And no matter what kind of party you have, as host or hostess, make sure your guests can get home safely. Party on! The Basic Bar:VodkaGinBourbonScotchRumDry white vermouthTequilaBittersTriple secLillet, Dubonnet, Campari or other aperitifRed wineWhite wineChampagne or sparkling wineBeer Condiments:Lemon wedges and twistsLime wedges and twistsOrange wedges and twistsPrepared horseradishTabasco sauceWorcestershire sauceKosher salt (for Margaritas)Celery seed and black pepper (for Bloody Marys)Cocktail olivesCocktail onions Mixers:Club sodaTonic waterMineral waterColaDiet colaGinger aleTomato juiceOrange juiceRose's lime juice Bar Tools:CorkscrewBottle openerJiggersBlenderIce tongsIce scoopPitchersDish towelsCutting board and knives for fruitCocktail napkinsIce bucketIce crackerCocktail stirrersCocktail shakerCocktail strainer Glassware:HighballsRocksFlutesAll-purpose wine glassesMartini glassesMargarita glassesBeer